Caption: His Excellency the President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau presents the Lali to Sir Frank Kabui after visiting him in Honiara yesterday. Photo: Supplied
Solomon Islands will continue to support Fiji in its efforts either in development, regional cooperation or international relations says the nation’s Governor General, Sir Frank Kabui.
The Governor General highlighted this to Fiji’s President, His Excellency Ratu Epeli Nailatikau at a dinner held in his honor in Honiara last night.
“Let me reassure you Mr President that my country will always support our Fijian brothers not only in times of joy and happiness but also during times of need,” he told Ratu Epeli.
“We have been friends for long and have developed a relationship that will go a long way.”
He acknowledged the assenting of Fiji’s Constitution last month saying it was a “win for Melanesians in solving its own problems”.
Sir Frank also said his country was appreciative of the economic contribution that Fijian companies have provided in Solomon Islands recent years in.
“Currently there are 28 Fijian companies operating out of Honiara,” Sir Frank said.
Ratu Epeli briefed the Governor General on Fiji’s road to elections which was well underway. He also presented a copy of the 2013 Constitution to him.
Fiji’s non – resident High Commissioner to the Solomon Islands His Excellency Romanu Tikotikoca said the meeting was very cordial and Honiara was very appreciative towards Fiji’s efforts not only nationally but regionally as well.
“We have seen quite an increase in high level visits between our two countries and this will in turn prove to be very positive in people to people relationship,” HE Tikotikoca said.
He highlighted the recent establishment of the Fiji – Solomon Islands Business Council which has boosted investment and trade between the two countries.
“There are quite a large number of Fijians working out of Solomon Islands in the various sectors including security, business, construction, transportation and others,” he said.
“The Fijian business houses operating out of Honiara have increased from just seven in 2005 to 28 this year and this shows the level of cooperation and trade between the two countries.”
SOURCE: MEDIA RELEASE